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Charuta Saoji joins Viacom18 as Colors marketing head, leaving L’Oréal
Mumbai: In a notable move within the marketing and media landscape, Charuta Ambardekar Saoji has joined Viacom18 as the vice president and head of marketing for Colors, the network’s flagship entertainment channel. Saoji’s transition from L’Oréal, where she served as marketing director, marks a strategic shift in her career towards the dynamic world of television.
Saoji brings with her a wealth of experience in brand management, having successfully spearheaded campaigns for several high-profile brands at L’Oréal. Her appointment at Viacom18 comes as Colors continues to seek innovative ways to engage audiences and strengthen its market position in the highly competitive television space.
Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Saoji stated, “I am thrilled to join the Viacom18 family and look forward to shaping the future of Colors’ brand strategy. It’s an exciting time for the channel as we explore fresh approaches to content and audience engagement.”
This move comes at a crucial time for Viacom18, as the company aims to further consolidate its leadership position in the entertainment industry. Saoji’s expertise in consumer insights and her ability to craft compelling marketing narratives are expected to play a pivotal role in driving Colors’ growth trajectory. The channel, known for its wide range of popular shows, stands to benefit from her leadership in enhancing brand communication and expanding its reach across diverse audience segments.
Prior to this, Saoji made significant strides at L’Oréal, where she led campaigns that bolstered the brand’s presence in the Indian market. Her experience in navigating the complexities of consumer behavior and brand loyalty will be instrumental in crafting Colors’ future marketing strategies.
Industry insiders view Saoji’s appointment as a strategic hire that will add considerable depth to Viacom18’s leadership team. With her track record of executing successful marketing strategies, she is well-positioned to elevate the brand’s market presence.
“Charuta’s appointment reflects our commitment to bringing on board marketing leaders who can drive brand growth through innovation and consumer focus,” said a Viacom18 spokesperson. “Her ability to understand consumer trends and create impactful brand stories aligns perfectly with our vision for Colors.”
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
